Instead of traditional patio furniture, would you go with a picnic table? I have a budget around $200 and I've been looking around for a decent patio set but they are all cheap looking.

I did have the chance to buy a patio set from a friend but it had cushions and I just didn't want to deal with bringing them in before it rains.

I started looking around Craigslist and found a local guy that makes picnic tables. Brand new, sturdy and painted/treated picnic tables was quoted at under $200. What a great deal.

I'm getting a hole in the middle so I use an umbrella, too.

Picture below is similar to what I'm getting. I love the detached benches and the back. Also, I'm getting a 5 foot picnic table with 4 - 2.5' detached benches with backs.